There were a large number of bees in the air around the swarm, but I was surprised at how many people managed to walk to almost level with the swarm before they notice! Once they noticed they normally fled in panic. I was stood there camera in hand - and I think most people thought I was crazy. The bees seemed more relaxed than most of the people.
You could see a number of the bees doing their figure of eight waggle dance on the surface of the swarm - which is the first time I've seen this happen.
You can find more macro shots at Macro Monday.
Enjoy the close ups.
Great close-up photos. A little bit creepy to see all these bees so close...
ReplyDeleteHave a great Sunday!
Oh my, I think I would have fled too. Glad you stayed and took your photos. It is a neat sight to see.
ReplyDeleteTalk about strength in numbers!
ReplyDeleteAmazing photos and I know I shouldn't laugh but the thought of those poor people running when they realised! That bottom photo reminds me of a pair of slippers, not that I'd want to wear them.
ReplyDeleteStrength in numbers indeed!! That is a barrel of bees if I ever saw one!! What great shots, Stewart!! Hope your didn't get stung!!
ReplyDeletei hope they find a new hive to settle into.
ReplyDeleteWow … these are amazing! I’ve heard that bees might one day be on the endangered species list. It sure doesn’t seem like it by the looks of your photos. They sure don’t mind invading each others space, either. In fact, it looks like the bees rather enjoy it. :)
ReplyDeleteGosh, that's a lot of bees. Since I've gotten into nature photography, I've found that I'm less scared of bees or stinging insects when the camera is in front of me. Being an observer through the lens, you realize that they're more interested in their nectar or whatever than worrying about you. Good on you to be brave and get these shots!
ReplyDeleteIt is fascinating to see the bees swarming to hear the buzz!
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh -- I like creepy crawlies, but a whole swarm of bees is a little scary! Beautiful macro.
ReplyDeleteWow, what an amazing thing to see. My six year old would probably die on the spot. She has a big phobia about bees. Anything that buzzes in fact.
ReplyDeleteHerdign Cats
Wow! Excellent ~ you were brave ~ (A Creative Harbor)
ReplyDeleteI will flee also if I see that, as I've been stung maybe 5 times with them, but not from the swarm. I wonder why they do the figure it, and you are so observant to have figured that out. I figured the loop is not very long for you to notice, the figure, haha! I intentionally emphasized the redundant figures!
ReplyDeleteAmazing shots!
ReplyDeleteHoly lots of bees!
ReplyDeleteI've never seen a swarm like that. Amazing!
ReplyDelete